Exclusive:Transfer latest as Portsmouth defender’s told he can leave Fratton Park this summer
News over the future of the man who arrived from Fulham two years ago.
Ibane Bowat is free to leave Pompey.
Blues boss John Mousinho has confirmed the central defender can move on from Fratton Park, before the close of the summer window.
Mousinho on Bowat’s future: ‘We won’t stand in his way’
Pompey are facing having to trim players from the first team, as they operate within the confines of the EFL’s 25-man squad rules.
And Bowat is one of the existing group who can move on, as the football operation tries to balance off this summer’s transfer business.
The 23-year-old is keen to find the regular first team football he feels he wasn’t afforded at PO4 last term, as he made 18 appearances.
The former Fulham man returned two crucial goals in that time, scoring winners against Blackburn Rovers last December and the success against Leicester City which effectively kept Pompey in the Championship.
Mousinho explained he and Bowat have differing views over the amount of football he played last term.
The Pompey head coach there’s no issues with those conflicting opinions, with Bowat able to move on to gain the minutes he’s unlikely to see at Fratton Park.
Mousinho said: ‘Ibane is one we’ve had a conversation with about the potential to move on.
‘I think if the right deal comes up for Ibane and it works for him and the club, we won’t stand in his way.
‘It’s absolutely fine if he wants to move on. Ibs helped us a lot last year and chipped in with some big, big goals in big moments.
‘Myself and Ibane always have very friendly conversations about his situation, but we don’t necessarily see the position over his level of contribution in the same way as each other.
‘I love that and I love the fact players are backing themselves to play games.
‘So if it’s beneficial for Ibane to move on and it works for the club, we won’t stop that.’
Pompey can call upon six central defenders with Bowat joined by Conor Shaughnessy, Regan Poole, Hayden Matthews, Madiodio Dia and Josh Knight as specialist options.
Additionally, Dundee’s Luke Graham is being pursued this summer with the £1.5m-rated defender also being eyed by Rangers and Championship rivals.